Abuja Federal High Court affirms state executives’ authority in a major blow to caretaker faction amid party crisis
Abuja, Nigeria — Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, that the David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) lacked authority to conduct state congresses or a national convention.
The court restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing those processes and directed that the party’s elected state executive committees be recognized.
The judgment arose from a suit filed by state chairmen and executives, including Don Norman Obinna, Johnny Tovie Derek, Obah C. Ehigiator, Hon. Olona Yinka, Dr. Charles Idowu Omideji, Samuel Pam Gyang, and Obianyo Patrick.
Plaintiffs argued that the party’s constitution reserves the power to organize state congresses exclusively for state executive committees and that the four-year tenure of those committees remains valid.
Justice Abdulmalik held that neither the 1999 Nigerian Constitution nor the ADC’s own constitution empowers the national caretaker or interim committee, led by former Senate President Senator David Mark, to appoint committees for state congresses.
The court nullified the congresses and conventions organized by the Mark-led group, describing them as illegitimate.
The judge further restrained Senator Mark and other defendants from interfering with the functions and tenure of the duly elected state executives. She affirmed that only these elected structures possess the authority to conduct fresh congresses when due.
“Only duly elected party structures have the authority to organize state congresses,” the judgment emphasized, underscoring the supremacy of constitutional provisions within the party.
Context of the ADC Leadership Crisis
The ruling marks a significant development in the prolonged leadership crisis that has engulfed the ADC. The party, which has sought to position itself as a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections, has faced factional disputes following the emergence of the Mark-led caretaker committee. Reports indicate earlier internal transitions involving figures such as Chief Ralph Nwosu, former national chairman, and Rauf Aregbesola.
State chairmen welcomed the decision. One plaintiff, speaking on condition of anonymity due to ongoing sensitivities, stated: “This judgment restores order and protects the democratic foundation of our party at the state level. We can now focus on genuine grassroots mobilization without parallel structures undermining our efforts.”
A legal expert familiar with political party litigation, who requested anonymity, added: “The court has reinforced a fundamental principle: internal party organs must operate within their constitutional limits. This prevents arbitrary takeovers that erode member confidence.”
Perspectives and Implications
Supporters of the Mark-led faction have expressed strong reservations. Some have described the judgment as problematic and indicated plans to challenge it at higher courts, including the Supreme Court, where related appeals on the ADC leadership dispute are pending. David Mark has previously downplayed the crisis, insisting it represents normal internal evolution rather than disarray.
INEC, as the regulatory body for political parties, now faces clear directives on which structures to engage. The commission must navigate these orders while monitoring compliance with the Electoral Act.
This decision carries substantial weight for Nigeria’s multiparty democracy. Political analysts note that unresolved leadership crises in opposition parties often weaken their capacity to provide credible alternatives during elections. Recent data from similar cases show that court interventions in party affairs frequently prolong uncertainty and affect candidate selection processes.
The ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in interpreting party constitutions and safeguarding elected structures against interim bodies. For the ADC, it highlights the urgent need for internal reconciliation to present a united front.
Future Outlook
As the ADC grapples with this outcome, attention shifts to potential appeals and the party’s readiness for upcoming electoral cycles. Stakeholders anticipate further legal clarity from superior courts. Meanwhile, the affirmation of state executives’ tenure offers a temporary framework for continuity at the grassroots level.
The judgment serves as a reminder that adherence to constitutional provisions remains essential for political stability and public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
